A collaboration between Efficient DriveTrains, Inc., and Shannxi automotive has produced the first plug-in hybrid electric (PHEV) Class-8 cement truck.
The zero-emission truck integrates the Efficient Drivetrain's EDI PowerDrive 8000 PHEV drivetrain and EDI PowerSuite vehicle control software into a Shaanxi Automotive 32-ton cement mixer truck.
More on Efficient Drive Trains
The plug-in electric drive system gives drivers full power performance without emissions, and eliminates the need for engine idling. In addition, the low-cost drivetrain system is expected to make electrification of construction vehicles affordable.
Electrification kits include the EDI PowerDrive, a vehicle control and telematics software (EDI PowerSuite™), and electrification accessories. The company also offers a power export option - Power2E - that gives the vehicle the capability to export a range of power directly from the vehicle for use in disaster recovery, jobsite maintenance, tool operation, and other applications.
EDI and Shaanxi have collaborated on two other similar PHEV projects for Class-6 and & city buses and class -8 port vehicles.
The truck is intended for use in China where government mandated emissions regulations are attempting to cope with the country's rapid urbanization and should be ready for the field in lat 2017.
